Pauline Daniell

Age 95, of Wilmington, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday evening, November 22, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born at home on January 16, 1929, in Coles County, Illinois, Pauline Evelyn was a daughter of Orvine and Freda Fern (Wagonner) Thomas. She grew up in the small town of Etna, Illinois, where her roots in kindness and hard work were cultivated. On December 1, 1945, Pauline married the love of her life, Gerald “Squirt” Daniell, in Mattoon, Illinois. Together, they began their journey in Mattoon before settling in Wilmington in the early 1950s, where they built a loving home and life.

Pauline balanced her roles as a devoted wife and mother with a strong work ethic. She worked for Braun Sales in Wilmington and later joined The Free Press Newspapers, where she worked until the age of 90. Pauline’s dedication extended beyond her professional life into her community. She was an active and faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Wilmington, where she was a cherished participant in the sewing circle and a regular contributor to church dinners, sharing her culinary talents.

Known for her sweet and generous nature, Pauline had a way of making everyone feel cared for. She was always ready with a helping hand and will forever be remembered as an exceptional cook, creating countless meals from scratch with love. Pauline and Squirt shared a lifetime of adventures, from traveling together to exploring the open road on motorcycle trips. The pair also enjoyed crafting, creating beautiful pieces that reflected their shared creativity and teamwork.

Above all, Pauline’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who enriched the lives of those she held dear. Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Pauline’s warm spirit and her ability to bring joy to others will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She leaves behind a life well-lived and a legacy of love that will endure for generations to come.

Survivors include three sons: Danny (Pat) Daniell and Roger (Susan) Daniell, both of Wilmington and Tommy Daniell of Las Vegas, Nevada; her daughter-in-law, Barbara Daniell of Bourbonnais, Illinois; (12) grandchildren: Casey Daniell, Ryan (Lucy) Daniell, Molly (Nic) Friedhoff, Rachel Conforti, Nathan (Suzy) Daniell, Abigail (Will) Barry, Anna Burton, Amy (Jon) Baker, Rachel Bradley, Blake (Aja) Daniell, Liberdy (Scott) McAllister and Gerald (Katarina) Daniell; (21) great grandchildren: Jack, Wyatt, Tessa, Siena, Nathan Jr., Claire, Chloe, Penny, Kip, Allie, Andie, Behr, Ava, Elizabeth, Dillon, Aria, Blake, Violet, Daniell, Hazel and Siren, and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as loving friends.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents; husband Gerald (1999); son, Gary (2009); grandson, Kyle Daniell (2020); great granddaughter, Sabrina Conforti (2021), and two brothers: Dewey (Elsie) Thomas and James “Bud” (Ruth) Thomas.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and the family is planning a celebration of Pauline’s life and memorial for a later date.

Pauline will be laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery, Wilmington alongside her late husband, Gerald.

 Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Pauline’s memory to the First United Methodist Church, 401 E. Kahler Road, Wilmington, IL 60481.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Pauline’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation and memorial services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)